Kaikoura archaeological excavations

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33434, 16 January 1974, Page 12

Kaikoura archaeological excavations

Archaeologists and their helpers from the Canterbury Museum, working on hehalf of the New Zealand Historic Places Trust, have recently been investigating an area at Takahanga (see picture, left) on the proposed site of the new Kaikoura police station and Post Office.

Mr Michael Trotter, archaeologist for the Canterbury museum, stated that while no firm conclusion about the area had been reached, there was a preliminary assessment of archaeoolgical evidence to indicate that it was occupied between 500 and 800 years ago. The investigation pits which had been excavated two feet below the surface, showed occupation of approximately 150 years ago with a European influence — a bottle and pieces of concrete had been discovered. Evidence of foodstuffs indicated paua, barracuda, seals, rats and dogs. The discovery of the remains of two trolling hook lures suggested the means of catching the fish. A large cooking area was discovered nearby but no evidence of food was found here; this supports the theory that vegetables — such as kumera — were the main diet.

The inhabitants of the area were not rich as no stone ornaments had been found. Woodwork tools have been discovered. Small particles of red ochre (used as a form of paint for the body and face) have also been discovered. The early inhabitants appear to have left the site approximately 100 years ago and the area was then occupied by an entirely different class of Maori who led a more European way of life. These people had clay pipes, handmade bottles and crockery. The remains of an ironware saucepan was also among the articles unearthed.

Excavations will continue for another two weeks. When work starts on excavating the site for building it is hoped to have an archaeologist on the site.